Workplace stress can result in habitual absence from work and going to work despite being unwell and also higher rates of accidents and injuries. There are many contributing factors in the workplace that can lead to stress, burnout, and depression. These include poor work organisation, excessive workload, conflicting roles, job insecurity, lack of support from higher management, and ineffective communication, according to experts.
“Our mental health is affected by social, biological and psychological factors. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood,” says Dr Majid Al Abdulla, Deputy Chair of Psychiatry at Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) Mental Health Service.
“Mental illness is not something to be embarrassed about or seen as a hopeless situation. In many cases, mental health problems can go away and many people recover completely. Learning about various coping techniques can help individuals deal with stress which can often impact on a person’s mental well-being,” he added.
While, depression and anxiety disorders can have an impact on a person’s ability to both work, and work productively, acccording to the World Health Organization (WHO). It says that employers and managers who establish workplace initiatives that promote mental wellness and support employees who have mental disorders see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their productivity.
As increasingly more people are talking about mental wellness in the workplace and the importance of psychological well-being in relation to overall health. In recognition of this, the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, is ‘Mental Health in the Workplace’.
Iain Tulley, Mental Health Services CEO at HMC, recommends that organisations, especially large ones with many employees, consider introducing some form of an employee support program that can provide assistance through prevention and early intervention for employees affected by stress and emotional and mental health problems.
“Keeping well is very important, but at times of need, we encourage seeking professional help as soon as possible. The first contact should be with a primary healthcare physician,” he said.
Dr Al Abdulla adds that at HMC, there is a broad spectrum of services on offer under the Corporation’s Mental Health Services, which cover the entire age range from children to older people. HMC’s Mental Health Services can be accessed in a number of ways including referral from within HMC, and primary health care and private clinics. Children and adolescents can be referred by a doctor, counselor or school representative to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.
